6 Coconut Oil Uses Beyond Cooking

We all know coconut oil has become the “star” in cooking recently. Thanks to it’s health benefits, coconut oil is your go-to oil for cooking, but also for salads and much more. But there are so many uses beyond cooking. If you use coconut oil just for cooking, you are severely underestimating this fantastic product.

Among the many uses of coconut oil are skin care, oil pulling, and of course, healing benefits. If someone tells you coconut oil is bad for you, slap them in the face. Yes, some people consider coconut oil to be bad because of the high amount of saturated fat. In fact, the nutritional table shows that coconut oil contains 90% saturated fat. However, what few people do not know is that 2/3 of that fat is medium-chain triglycerides, or MCTs. These are the healthy fats, one that aid in so many things.

What few people also know is that our body actually needs fat to survive. So, forget all those people telling you coconut oil is high in fats. There are good fats, and there are bad fats. Coconut oil helps with the good ones and raises your good HDL cholesterol. Remember, coconut oil does not contain the fats that French fries contain, for example. Coconut oil is in the same category for fats like fish, nuts, seeds, and avocado. Here are some coconut oil uses that go beyond cooking.

Just a side note, coconut oil has a solid form at room temperature. When you heat at 76 degrees, the oil becomes liquid.

Cooking

Now, when you talk coconut oil uses, you have to start from cooking. Coconut oil has a high smoke point, making it a great oil for any type of cooking. You can easily cook at a higher temperature without burning your food. And the best part is, when cooked, coconut oil does not break down into a trans fat. You can use coconut oil to roast veggies, to sauté veggies, for baking, for broiling, stir-frying, and even for making popcorn.

Oil pulling

This is one of the ancient Ayurvedic practices that you can use coconut oil for. A great remedy for whiter and stronger teeth, oil pulling is swishing oil in your mouth. Coconut oil helps with stronger gums, cavity, and gingivitis prevention. But most importantly, practicing this technique will help you get a better breath. So, how to do it? Just get a spoon of oil in your mouth, and swish it around for 15 to 20 minutes. Spit it out, and repeat once per week.

Coconut oil as supplement

As mentioned in the beginning, coconut oil is extremely healthy. That is why, if you want, you can actually consume it as a supplement for daily energy. Just take a spoon, and eat it. You will feel your energy levels rising, but you will also notice how it helps with weight loss. One thing I love to do is take a spoon before going to bed. It definitely helps with good night’s sleep.

Skin care

A jar of coconut oil is a must in the bathroom. There is no other way around it. Your skin will be as smooth as a baby. Massage your body with coconut oil just after getting out of the shower. Your skin will be great. Just remember, do not put coconut oil just before getting dressed and going out. Perform this treatment when you are staying home comfy in your PJs. Always go for organic coconut, as it is rich in antioxidants and vitamin A.

Sunscreen

One of the benefits of coconut oil is that it protects your skin from harmful effects of sun rays. You can use it as a natural sunscreen and avoid the toxic and harmful store bought products with chemical ingredients. However, remember, coconut oil is a whole day at the beach sunscreen. Use for occasional sun exposure only.

Boost immune system

A tablespoon of coconut oil and hot tea will help you recover from cold and flu in a matter of hours. You can also use coconut oil as honey. Grab a spoon and dissolve in your throat. Coconut oil coats and protects your throat, but also boost your immune system. There are many healthy nutrients in coconut oil that boost your immune system and help with the common cold. If you want to add in your breakfast, add a spoon to your oatmeal.